RICHMOND, IND. — Anchor Ingredients, a supplier of high-quality ingredients for use in pet food products based out of Fargo, ND, unveiled its new transload and ingredient processing facility in Richmond on Oct. 28. According to the company, the new facility will play a key role in the pet food industry, serving as a distribution hub for top brands. 

Anchor broke ground on the project in June 2023. The $40 million facility spans more than 40 acres in the Midwest Industrial Park in Richmond. According to Anchor, the facility will enhance its capabilities, offering bulk storage, climate-controlled warehouse space, safety stock management, grain origination, quality assurance testing and on-site processing services. 

Additionally, the facility’s location provides easy truck access from I-70 and service from the Norfolk Southern mainline railway. All this allows the facility to provide high-quality, reliable ingredients to pet food processors throughout the region and North America. 

“We are excited to officially open our new facility in Richmond,” said Al Yablonski, co-founder and chief executive officer of Anchor Ingredients. “This marks a significant milestone for Anchor Ingredients, reaffirming our commitment to the pet food industry. By enhancing our logistics and processing capabilities, we are well-positioned to meet the growing needs of our customers, while contributing to the economic development of the Richmond community.” 

The new facility was supported by several local organizations including the Richmond Redevelopment Commission, the City of Richmond and Wayne County Economic Development Corporation for rail access. Additionally, Norfolk Southern provided rail access design, helping ensure seamless integration of rail logistics for Anchor’s operations. 

“On behalf of the citizens of Richmond and the surrounding area, we greatly appreciate the investment Anchor Ingredients is making in Richmond,” said Richmond Mayor Ron Oler. “Anchor’s trust in locating their new facility in our city is a testament to our growing reputation as a business-friendly environment. Indiana is for the bold, and Richmond is a city on the rise.”

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IDEC) also provided the company incentive-based tax credits in Manufacturing Readiness Grants, supporting the company’s investment in technology and automation.

“Indiana has long been a leader in manufacturing, delivering innovative and high-quality products to businesses and consumers across the world,” said Brock Herr, senior vice president of business retention, expansion and attraction at the IDEC. “We’re excited to welcome Anchor Ingredients to this robust ecosystem and to our Richmond community, where I’m confident the state’s infrastructure and skilled workforce will power success for years to come.”

With this facility, Anchor plans to deepen its presence in the Richmond community by developing partnerships with regional farmers and supporting the overall pet food industry.

Find more articles related to pet food and supplier facilities.